5 Ways To Style The Perfect Short Set

Walking by colorful tulips in a black Rails short set, sandals, and straw tote.

I will show you 5 ways to style the perfect short set…

I finally found the short set that I have been searching for…a one and done outfit that is super chic and versatile – I will be wearing it all Summer long.

I had been searching for this unicorn of short sets for weeks – and I ordered and returned a ton. The issue with many of them  – the tops were literally half shirts (even if not pictured that way online). I had almost given up when I stumbled across this set by Rails.

First – the fabric. It is an amazing gauzy material that is light, mostly wrinkle-free, and adds texture which makes the simple black on black a bit more interesting. Second, the top is technically cropped but my tummy is safely covered thanks to the rise of the shorts.

And both the top and bottom are mix-and-matchable with a lot of my Summer wardrobe, and can easily be dressed up or down. I’m telling you – this one set can effortlessly take you thru Summer. I could have styled this set all day long…but here are 5 favorite looks!

1 – Style the Perfect Short Set with Sneaks!

Wearing a black Rails short set with white Axel Arigato sneakers and a straw tote.

Top @ Nordy (TTS) | Top @ NeimansShorts (TTS) | Sneakers | Bag (Similar)

This is about as effortless as it gets…I love the contrast of the white sneaks with the all black short set. I can walk for miles in comfort, and it’s perfectly chic. This is basically my dream Summer outfit. My bag is old, but I LOVE the one I linked – I’m seriously considering it for an update this Summer. The handles are leather and the reviews say they are large enough to be worn on your shoulder – it is stunning.

Jenni Kayne Woven tote full of Spring flowers.

Bag (Similar)

I had to include a picture of this bag…currently sitting in my cart. Swoon.

2 – Style the Perfect Short Set with Sandals

Wearing a black Rails short set with Sam Edelman strappy sandals and a Clare V woven bag.

Top @ Nordy | Top @ Neimans | Shorts (TTS) | Sandals | Bag

Swap the sneaks for flat sandals + the tote for a slightly more elevated bag, and you have an outfit that is still Summer casual but perfect for brunch/lunch etc.

3 –  Keep the Shorts & Change the Top

Wearing the black Rails leighton shorts with a black and white striped Frame tee.

Top | Shorts (TTS) | Sandals | Bag (Similar)

Here, I paired the shorts with a striped linen tee by Frame, but I could have literally picked anything in my closet. I’m especially picturing the shorts with a camisole or graphic tee – the options are endless.

A few tops that I’m specifically picturing with these shorts…

Anine Bing Tee | My Go-To White Tee | Classic Cami | Statement Cami

4- Keep the Top & Change the Bottoms

Wearing the black Rails miley top with Agolde Riley jeans.

Top @ Nordy | Top @ NeimansJeans (TTS) | Sandals | Bag (Similar)

I love this top with jeans…and again the gauzy material and flutter sleeves make it feel special. I paired this with Birkenstocks for a casual vibe, but you could easily switch the shoes and bag and have an outfit that is ready for dinner and cocktails. Talk about an easy way to transition from day to night while on vacation.

5- Style the Perfect Short Set for A Night Out

A black Rails short set dressed up with the Frame Le Doheny black scrappy sandals.

Top @ Nordy | Top @ Neimans | Shorts (TTS) | Sandals | Bag (Similar)

And last but not least this set is a snap to dress up with heels. I don’t love short shorts with high heeled sandals, it feels “too much” for my 43-year old self. But these shorts are the perfect length with enough coverage, that it just works.

And that’s 5 ways to style the perfect short set but honestly, the options are endless. If you are looking for that unicorn of short sets  – or that one outfit to add to your closet that will easily mix in with the rest of your wardrobe – I highly recommend giving this set a try. And the pieces are sold separately, so if you prefer only the top (or bottoms), you can go that route too.

If you’re lucky enough to be traveling this summer, this outfit would be the perfect thing to add to your suitcase –  talk about making it easy to pack light!

Cheers!
Rachel

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